Tramadol Abuse by Teens

Tramadol is in a group of drugs called opiate agonists. It is used to treat moderate to severe pain by changing the way the body senses pain. Tramadol can either be taken as a normal tablet or an extended-release (long-acting) tablet to be taken through the mouth. The regular tablet can be taken with or without food every four to six hours, or as needed. The extended-release tablet should only be taken once a day around the same time every day.

When using extended-release the patient either needs to always take it with food or always take it without food. The extended-release tablets should only be taken whole. It is dangerous to split, chew, crush, snort or inject the dissolved form of the tablet. It is important to only take the medication as the doctor prescribes because it is a highly dependent drug.

Tramadol Teen Use

Tramadol is a relatively easy drug for teens to abuse because it isn’t hard to obtain. Many can simply open their parent’s medicine cabinets and sneak a few pills. It does not have as intense of a high as other drugs, but it does have a similar high to that of opioids, such as hydrocodone or morphine. It is also a highly dependent drug, so teens that use tramadol often become addicted and could build up a tolerance. When this happens, the user has to take more to receive the initial effects. This is a dangerous thing to do because when a user does not take the medication, withdrawal symptoms will occur. Many teens will continue to use tramadol to avoid suffering the effects of withdrawal.

Tramadol Abuse Warning Signs

It is important to understand the warning signs of prescription drug abuse. Sometimes it can be difficult to tell if someone is abusing prescriptions or if they really need the medication. There are certain warning signs to look for when you think someone is abusing prescription medications:

• “Losing” prescriptions often so they have to go to the doctor to get a new one
• Getting prescriptions from more than one doctor
• Taking higher doses despite warnings
• Stealing prescriptions
• Forging prescriptions
• Selling prescriptions
• Excessive mood swings

Tramadol Abuse Prevention

It is important to keep your prescription medications clearly labeled and away from children and those with a history of drug abuse. Keep all medications in a locked cabinet. Dispose of all unused pills properly. The federal government suggests flushing opioid painkillers down the toilet. Other unused medications can be mixed with coffee grounds or kitty litter and thrown away. Failure to follow the steps can lead your teen to becoming dependent on prescription drugs.

Tramadol Addiction Help

If you or a loved one is addicted to tramadol, it is important to seek help. Tramadol is a highly dependent drug. Once addicted, the effects are devastating. But, there is hope. If you are interested in receiving information on tramadol detox or rehab, please call our toll free number at (888) 371-5704 for more information on drug addiction treatment.